Crosscourt Clash

Objective

• -Play across the pitch with purpose
• -Use angles to unbalance defenders
• -Create chances from side to side

Setup

1. 1Mark a rectangle and divide it with two crosscourt lanes using cones.
2. 2Place a mini goal at each end.
3. 3Split into two teams with bibs.
4. 4Teams start spread across the whole pitch, with balls ready at the coach.

How to play

1. 1A goal only counts if the attack includes a pass across one of the crosscourt lanes.
2. 2Players are encouraged to change the angle of attack before finishing.
3. 3If the ball goes out, restart quickly from the side.
4. 4Defenders try to block the passing lanes across the pitch.
5. 5Keep players rotating so they see both attacking and defending roles.

Progressions

• +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
• +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
• +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
• -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
• -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
• -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
• -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
• -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
• -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
• -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
• -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Playing only straight ahead
• -Standing on the same line as the ball
• -Forcing risky passes without support